SteelSeries
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro (Black)
Gaming · 2022 · Black
88
/ 100
From $249
VS
Bose
Bose QC45
Over-ear · 2021
88
/ 100
From $329
Specdex verdict
Dead heat — it comes down to priorities.
In our weighted Specdex score, SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro (Black) lands at 88 and Bose QC45 at 88. With scores tied, the decision hinges on which sub-scores matter most to you.
Pick SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro (Black) if…
- ✓Low-latency 2.4 GHz wireless (most)
- ✓Detachable broadcast mic
- ✓Console compatibility
Pick Bose QC45 if…
- ✓Flagship comfort + ANC on modern models
- ✓Premium build
- ✓Active noise cancellation (most models)
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro (Black) 88
vs 88 Bose QC45
Score breakdown
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro (Black)
88 anc 70
sound 88
comfort 86
battery 86
features 88
Bose QC45
88 anc 86
sound 88
comfort 87
battery 82
features 84
Specs side-by-side
| Spec | SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro (Black) | Bose QC45 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Gaming headset | Over-ear |
| Variant | Black | — |
| Release year | 2022 | 2021 |
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro (Black)
Pros
- +Low-latency 2.4 GHz wireless (most)
- +Detachable broadcast mic
- +Console compatibility
Cons
- −Bulkier than audiophile cans
- −Game-tuned EQ
- −Software required on PC
Bose QC45
Pros
- +Flagship comfort + ANC on modern models
- +Premium build
- +Active noise cancellation (most models)
Cons
- −Battery varies by codec
- −Some are Bluetooth-only
- −Price creep vs previous gen
FAQ: SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro (Black) vs Bose QC45
Which is better, SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro (Black) or Bose QC45? +
Both score 88 on our weighted rubric — tied. Your best pick depends on the sub-scores above.
Is SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro (Black) worth the price? +
At $249, SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro (Black) delivers a Specdex score of 88 — strongest in sound.
Is Bose QC45 worth the price? +
At $329, Bose QC45 delivers a Specdex score of 88 — strongest in sound.
Does SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro (Black) or Bose QC45 last longer? +
Based on our long-term update and support ratings, both ship with multi-year support. Battery and reliability scores are visible in the breakdown above.